DUDLEY - Charles O. Drake, beloved father, husband and friend to many, passed away on Monday, December 1, surrounded by his family.
Charlie leaves behind the large family he cared for all his life: his wife of 41 years, Clara (Van Sickle) Drake; four daughters, Donna Farland, Naomi Heron, Melody Drake and Tiffany Breau, and two sons, Daniel and Wayne Drake. His beautiful daughter Nona predeceased him in 1967. Charlies loved his children, and had a special love for his 11 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Charlies was the youngest of 6 boys and big brother to his three sisters who survive him: Lois Rhone, Theresa Wayman and Mary Miller.
Born on a potato farm in Caribou, Maine to Roy and Mary Elizabeth (Farraher) Drake, Charlie knew a happy family life and reflected what he learned from his parents in the way he cared for his own family.
Charlie worked for over 35 years at Wyman Gordon in Worcester as a general operator. Charlie had many happy memories of his time there and made many friends, some of whom remained friends for life.
Charlie loved dancing, fixing things around the house and listening to old-time country music, but dearest to his heart was his love for Jehovah God as a baptized Jehovah’s Witness. He was a 52-year member of the Southbridge West Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He loved to share with others the comforting hope for the future in which he had complete trust, a future when all things will be made new.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, December 20, in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 52 Old Webster Road, OXFORD. There are no calling hours. Donations in his name may be made to the Southbridge West Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 700 Worcester Street, Southbridge, MA 01550. Arrangements are under the direction of Sitkowski & Malboeuf Funeral Home, 340 School St., Webster.